Tombstone entrepreneur Lebohang Khitsane has died from renal failure on Thursday morning.
Khitsane was a successful business tycoon known for his unique art style in designing and manufacturing tombstones.
He manufactured tombstones for families‚ prominent citizens and celebrities‚ including Nelson Mandela‚ former prime minister of Lesotho, Dr Leabua Jonathan‚ former South African Football Association president, Solomon “Stix” Morewa‚ flyweight boxing world champion Jacob “Baby Jake” Matlala‚ national motor racing champion and television personality Gugulethu “Gugu” Zulu‚ and television presenters Vuyo Mbuli and Simba Mhere.
He also made statues for Shangaan disco king and reality TV star Papa Penny‚ Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu and former president Thabo Mbeki.
“Lebohang was not just an entrepreneur, but a leader in the funeral industry. His great work will be greatly missed,” read the family’s statement.
However, the family pleaded for privacy during their grieving period.
His company, Bataung Memorial Tombstones which began its operation about 13 years ago has attracted so many loyal clients all over Southern Africa.
During his lifetime, Khitsane said his inspiration came from families who were tired of regular “boring” tombstones.
He said 70% of his clients were “ordinary citizens”.
He described his work as “God’s calling”.
“For me‚ this is God’s calling. People appreciate beautiful tombstones. Each and every tombstone for me is a challenge. I have to make sure that what we create reflects the life of the deceased‚” he told the media.
People have taken to their social media to express their sadness.
Mo gona Ramasedi o re tšeetse senatla. 💔😭 #RIPLeboKhitsane #BataungMemorials pic.twitter.com/RHR75fhgxL
— T. (@tboseZA) August 27, 2020
Abuti Lebo was a legendary human being and a good friend to my Mama Candy… Mama instructed me many times that she wanted no one else either than Abuti Lebo Khitsane to make her tombstone when… https://t.co/XzaJ7vx9Mh
— Lerato Zah (@lerato_zah) August 27, 2020
